Apolosi gives 7s advice, wishes boys well

MELROSE Cup winner Apolosi Satala has sent his good wishes to Fiji 7s coach Ben Ryan and his band of warriors as they prepare for the Las Vegas 7s next weekend.

The 2005 Rugby World Cup 7s winner said Fiji 7s would do well under the guidance of the former England mentor.

Satala said Ryan was adapting well to the styles of Fijian rugby and it would be hard for other teams to predict Fiji's game pattern.

"I wish Ben the best of luck during his term with the Fiji 7s team," he said.

"He (Ryan) keeps the opposition teams guessing on Fiji's game pattern even before the game starts.

"He is a wonderful coach especially the way he grooms a player and he is doing great things for Fiji 7s.

"I know he loves the Fiji public and he needs our support to achieve his goals."

Satala also encouraged 7s skipper Osea Kolinisau and the players to remain committed to their role despite the off-the-field incidents.

He challenged the boys to focus on their job descriptions and do the country proud.

"Firstly I want to congratulate the boys for their selection and for their dedication to be selected as the best 12 players to represent Fiji 7s," said Satala.

"Not many people have achieved what these players have and to the boys — you are the chosen ones to proudly carry the Fiji flag at the international 7s scene, play your hearts out for Fiji and its people.

"Players will come and go but for this very moment, the palm trees on your jerseys will be your motivating factor, inspiring you to play to the best of your abilities and prove your worth.

"There is nothing you can do better then to win the public's heart and perform to the best of your abilities and be the best you can in whatever you do.

"The last thing that comes to mind is the reward of winning because when you first do your part everything will later fall into place."

Satala said the players were being challenged and it took courage and sacrifice to withstand these challenges and tests.

"The players play an important role to win sponsors — if you play well, you will be rewarded.

"Officials cannot be a rugby player likewise a rugby player cannot be an official but they need to play their respective roles to achieve the best.

"And to my fellow brothers in the 7s team, just do your part and have faith in the Almighty Lord," he added.